More good news from the world of ADULT stem cell research

Spinal cord injury eased by stem cells

Canadian researchers have used stem cells to repair spinal cord damage in laboratory rats, restoring significant mobility in the animals and bringing the search for a human therapy another step closer.

A team led by Toronto neuroscientist Dr. Michael Fehlings extracted stem cells from adult mice, which were transplanted into rats whose spines had been crushed. The stem cells developed into one type of cell destroyed by the injury — the kind that produces myelin, the insulating layer that cocoons the bundle of nerve fibres that make up the cord.

Meanwhile, we're still waiting for embryonic stem cell research to get out to the launch pad. Lots of grandiose promises, but few - if any - results.